Wood fair offers lessons in dealing with invasive species

Purdue News Service
By Jennifer Stewart
October 14, 2008

Emerald ash borer adult. Photo by David Cappaert, Michigan State University

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - An upcoming event near Indianapolis will offer activities and resources for homeowners and others to help deal with invasive species and to learn to use wood products in ways that don't endanger native forestland.

On Saturday (Oct. 18), the public is invited to Noblesville's Forest Park for the Urban Wood Utilization Fair.

Sponsored by Purdue University, the Urban Wood Utilization Fair is being held in conjunction with the Indiana Arborist Association's tree climbing competition. The event will feature family-friendly activities while also teaching how to put ash wood to good use without risking further spread of emerald ash borer (EAB) and other invasive species.

"The fair gives families the opportunity to learn about EAB and other invasive species in a fun environment," said Jodie Ellis, Purdue entomologist.

Throughout the day, experts will be on hand with exhibits on innovative uses for dying trees and will answer questions about trees, forests, insect pests, gardening and chain saw safety.

Other activities will include Native American basket-making demonstrations, tree climbing for kids, an insect petting zoo, forester-led tours of the woods, face-painting, games, sawmill demonstrations and more.

"It's so important for people of all ages to learn about the invasive species affecting our trees," Ellis said. "The fair will be filled with activities that teach people about those pests and the ways they can be dealt with."

The Urban Wood Utilization Fair runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is free. In addition to Purdue, other sponsors include the Indiana Arborist Association and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

Forest Park is located at 701 Cicero Road on State Road 19 North. For more information, contact Ellis at (765) 494-0822, ellisj@purdue.edu .

Writer: Jennifer Stewart, (765) 494-6682, jsstewar@purdue.edu

Source: Jodie Ellis, (765) 494-0822, ellisj@purdue.edu